Most Frequently Asked Elopement Questions
So How Does This Work?
Set the Date!
- We can even decide on your package later if you can’t decide, but we DO need a date.
- I’ll send over the contract and deposit info so we can make it official!
Booking Confirmation
- A signed contract — yay, it’s official!
- Your invoice + payment confirmation
- A welcome email packed with planning resources, timeline help, and vendor recommendations
Timeline + Logistics
- We’ll decide on your ceremony location and timing, and get any necessary permits submitted.
- I’ll share my favorite local recommendations for lodging, food, flowers, hair, and makeup — everything you need to make your day perfect!
- I’ll answer any questions you have (yes, even the “stupid” ones ).
- I also have a Q&A guide that might answer questions you didn’t even know you should ask!
The Final Countdown
- About 2–3 weeks before your elopement, I’ll confirm start times, meeting points, and any last-minute updates.
- I’ll share your planned photo timeline with pictures of the stops.
- You can send me any photos of mine that you love — for location inspiration or posing ideas — so I can get a feel for your personal preferences.
Elopement Day!
- Final payment is due — and the fun begins!
- I’ll help with ceremony setup, arrange everyone, and get things rolling.
- We’ll take photos of any guests right after the ceremony (if you have guests), sign the license, cut cake, toast, dance — whatever you want to include!
- Then you’ll follow me to our next photo locations — I usually have a set route, but if the weather’s dramatic (fog, storms, golden light!) even better — I’ll play it by sight and we’ll chase the best views.
- Expect a mix of candid storytelling and gorgeous landscape portraits, with plenty of direction and posing help throughout.
Sneak Peeks + Gallery Delivery
- Around 50 sneak peeks within a week.
- Full gallery ready in 6–8 weeks.
- You’ll receive a link to download, share, and order prints — your gallery is contractually guaranteed within 90 days, but it’s almost always ready much sooner.
Glacier National Park Elopement QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Booking & Logistics
Do we drive separately?
Yes. That way I don’t have to keep my car spotless (since I basically live out of it). Plus, I tend to make people a little carsick with my driving.
Should I wait to secure the photographer until I get the permit?
No. Permits are much easier to get than photographers, lol.
Has anyone ever been denied a permit?
Nope! Sometimes we’ve had to switch to a second-choice location, but that’s all.
Do your packages include travel time?
Yes. When we meet and start taking photos, that’s when the “clock” starts. My packages reflect the time I need at each location. I’m experienced and efficient—I know how long it takes to get between spots, how much time each one needs, and which are best at golden hour or sunset.
What’s next after booking?
I’ll send you a digital contract. Once it’s signed and the deposit is received, your date is officially yours!
Ceremony & Permits
Do I need a Going-to-the-Sun Road reservation?
Yes and no. You don’t need one for the day of your wedding, but you’ll probably want one for the days before and after.
What’s the difference between all these permits and licenses?
Park Entrance Fee – $35: Paid at the gate, good for 7 days.
Going-to-the-Sun Reservation – $2: Required to drive the road to Logan Pass.
nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/vehicle-reservations.htm
Ceremony Permit – $125: Required to have a ceremony in the park. Also serves as your Going-to-the-Sun reservation for that day.
nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/weddings.htm
Marriage License – $53: Required to be legally married.
flathead.mt.gov/…/marriage_application_start
How long does it take to get a ceremony permit?
You must apply within 30 days of your wedding date. It can take a while to hear back—they issue them in the order they’re needed, not received. So if your wedding is still a year away, you’ll be waiting a bit.
Does the ceremony occupancy include the officiant, photographer, and videographer?
Yes. If they didn’t have limits, there’d be 250-person weddings on the shores of Lake McDonald!
Who can officiate the wedding?
Anyone—or no one! You can literally marry yourselves (it’s called “self-solemnization”). That said, having someone there usually makes it feel more special. Friends or family can officiate and sign the marriage license.
Do we need witnesses?
Nope. Not in Montana.
Do I need a blood test to get a marriage license in Montana?
No. As of 2019, Montana no longer requires blood tests for marriage (thanks to House Bill 136).
Photos & Packages
When will I get the photos?
I guarantee delivery within 90 days (as stated in the contract), but I usually deliver in 6–8 weeks.
How many photos will I get?
I typically deliver around 100 photos per hour, so depending on your package, you’ll receive anywhere from 200–600 images.
How will I get the photos?
You’ll receive your photos in an online gallery that never expires. You can order prints directly through that site or download them to order elsewhere.
Do you Photoshop?
Yes! I’ll make you look like you on your best day—like you slept 8 hours and haven’t had a drink all month. I’ll pose you at your most flattering angles and make sure no accidental double chins sneak in.
I’m not photogenic… will you help me look good?
Absolutely! I’ll guide you through everything. It’ll be fun, and you’ll end up with the most flattering photos you’ve ever seen of yourself.
My husband/groom/son/masculine presence doesn’t like photos. Help?
NO SH*&^$$#*T! Ninety percent of guys don’t like photos—which is funny because women are usually the self-conscious ones! But don’t worry, I’m really good at making it not miserable.
Locations, Timing & Conditions
How much hiking is involved?
If you want to hike, we can! But all my favorite spots (including ceremony locations) are easy to access. My favorite ceremony site is even wheelchair accessible.
Should I wear hiking boots?
Yes—or comfortable shoes. Bring the heels for a few shots if you’d like, but wearing them the whole time is slower.
What’s the best time for my ceremony and photos?
Count back from sunset! The best light is during golden hour—the hours before sunset when the park goes from pretty to jaw-dropping.
You want to start so late!? Won’t we run out of sunlight?
Yes—and that’s the goal! We want that golden, delicious light right before sunset. Trust me, it’s worth it. (And my equipment handles low light much better than your iPhone.)
What about the crowds?
That’s another reason evening is best—the park is much less crowded later in the day.
Are there places in the park to get ready?
There aren’t many dedicated places unless you rent a room in Apgar or at Lake McDonald Lodge. It’s best to arrive with hair and makeup done—but don’t worry, I’ve helped many brides into their dresses in the woods!
What if the weather is bad?
I’ve never had to reschedule a wedding because of weather. Glacier is huge—over a million acres! If one area has bad weather, we can wait it out or go elsewhere. Storms move quickly through the mountains, and honestly, “bad” weather makes for dramatic, beautiful photos.
Smoke can be tricky. A light haze creates warm, glowing tones, but if it’s too thick (rarely), I know of clear spots nearby—and I can also edit to make the mountains pop again.
Extras
Can we videotape it?
Yes, 100%! Even better, contact LoveLife Creative for a professional video.
Leave a Reply
Hi Marianne! Your photos & Site look great. My boyfriend and I are not yet engaged but we are ring shopping and looking into options…have you ever done photos for the intimate wedding option at this place here: https://glacierparkweddings.com/
I am wondering if your FAQ page aligns with it in terms of guest numbers etc and in terms of getting a permit and park pass. I remember last time I went to Glacier an entrance pass (+ ticketed entry) was semi difficult to get and that worries me because Glacier is so special to me and my dream spot! What’s your experience with this?
We are looking for next summer (June-Sept) sometime for a headcount of 23 including ourselves, photographer, and officiant.
Hi! Did you fill out my online form?
Hi ! I stumbled across your website while scrolling through Pinterest for Elopement inspo! I would love to get more information on your packages. I am planning a small intimate ceremony: bride, groom, parents for both and 2 little boys (3 and 4 yo). I am planning for Aug 15 if you have that date available. The date is not negotiable because it is our 5 year dating anniversary so we’d really like it to be that day, if you are available. This blog was VERY informative as I am already very overwhelmed planning this haha thank you for you time & I look forward to hearing back from you soon :)
Shoot me an email! mwphoto406@gmail.com :)